At NWN, we believe technology should do more than connect systems, it should unlock potential. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Cisco to bring transformative, real-world learning experiences to students, helping prepare them for the careers of tomorrow. 

Across classrooms, labs, and digital environments, this partnership is empowering students with more than just knowledge. It’s giving them the tools, confidence, and hands-on experience they need to thrive in an increasingly connected world. 

From Classroom to Career: Learning That Feels Real

What stands out most in the student experience is how immersive and practical it has become. Through Cisco-powered learning environments, students aren’t just studying theory -they’re actively building, troubleshooting, and managing the same types of networks and technologies they’ll encounter in the real world. 

Programs like Cisco Networking Academy are designed to bridge the gap between education and industry by combining curriculum with hands-on labs, simulations, and real-world scenarios.  

This approach helps students: 

• Gain practical experience with modern networking and cybersecurity tools 

• Build problem-solving skills through real-life scenarios 

• Develop confidence by applying what they learn in tangible ways 

It’s a shift from passive learning to active participation—and it’s exactly the kind of experience today’s students need. 

Creating Opportunity Through Access and Inclusion 

Cisco’s global education initiatives have reached millions of learners, creating pathways into technology careers that may have once felt out of reach. 

Through this partnership, NWN is helping extend that impact—bringing scalable, accessible solutions to institutions that want to modernize learning environments and expand opportunities. 

Together, we’re enabling: 

• Equitable access to technology education 

• Career-aligned training in high-demand fields like AI, cybersecurity, and networking 

• Flexible learning models that support in-person, hybrid, and remote students 

The result is a more inclusive pipeline of future technologists—diverse in background, but unified by opportunity. 

Technology That Enables Connection and Collaboration 

Today’s student experience goes far beyond the classroom. It’s about seamless collaboration, continuous connectivity, and the ability to learn from anywhere. 

Cisco’s technology ecosystem supports this by delivering secure, scalable platforms that power communication, collaboration, and innovation.  

The impact of these technologies is already being felt in K-12 environments.

“Seeing Cisco’s innovation firsthand reinforced how important technology has become in creating more engaging, connected learning environments,” said Seth Hemken, Director of Technology and Marketing for Redding School District.“The experience provided valuable insight into how organizations like Cisco and NWN are helping schools leverage modern collaboration technologies to better support students, educators, and the evolving needs of education.”

With NWN’s expertise in managed services and integration, institutions can bring these capabilities to life—creating environments where students and educators can: 

• Collaborate in real time across locations 

• Access learning resources anytime, anywhere 

• Engage with interactive, digital-first experiences 

This isn’t just about better technology. It’s about creating connected campuses that mirror the modern workplace. 

Preparing Students for What’s Next 

The future of work is evolving fast, and students need more than foundational knowledge to keep up. They need exposure to emerging technologies, clear career pathways, and experiences that build both technical and professional skills. 

Cisco’s education programs are built with this in mind, offering pathways that lead directly to industry-recognized certifications and real career opportunities.  

Through our partnership, NWN helps institutions align their technology infrastructure with these outcomes, ensuring students aren’t just learning, but preparing. 

A Shared Vision for Impact 

At its core, the collaboration between NWN and Cisco is about the impact on students, institutions, and communities. 

It’s about: 

• Turning classrooms into innovation hubs 

• Transforming technology into opportunity 

• And helping students see what’s possible 

We’re proud to stand alongside Cisco in delivering these experiences and shaping the future of education. 

Looking Ahead 

As technology continues to evolve, so will the expectations of students and educators alike. Together with Cisco, NWN is committed to staying ahead – continuing to innovate, expand access, and deliver experiences that truly make a difference. 

Because when students are empowered with the right technology and support, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.